Take Pride in Berlin Week

Take Pride in Berlin Week 2013 starts on Saturday, April 20th, from 8:30-Noon with the Annual Clean-Up Day. Clean-Up Day, sponsored by the Berlin Parks Commission and Grow Berlin Green, has been an ongoing springtime rite in Berlin when volunteers gather in our town parks, downtown and nature areas to spruce up after winter’s inactivity. Lots of volunteers are needed in the parks for planting, weeding, raking, mulching and whatever else needs attention.

This year, in addition to individuals, we are also looking for volunteer teams. Sign-up begins at 8:30 AM in both Stephen Decatur and Henry Parks, or, via FaceBook at Take Pride in Berlin Week ahead of time for a link to the sign-up. The specific areas that need attention are shown and you can designate one as “yours”. Businesses, non-profits… really any group can form a team. Use your imagination…how about your family? Book club? Scout Troop? Neighborhood coffee klatch?

Don’t have a team? Individuals are always welcome! This is a great time for students to earn those community service hours. Individuals can use the sign-up page as well.

Can’t make it on the 20th? How about an evening, or another day during Take Pride Week? Areas can still be designated as yours and Town Services may be made available if needed.

On the 20th some supplies will be available for use, but participants are encouraged to bring their own if possible..

Following all of your hard work, lunch and music will be provided for participants in Henry Park. We are grateful to Berlin Area Ministries United (BAMU) for generously providing lunch. Make sure to let them know how much their efforts are appreciated.

Just cannot make it in person? Donations are always welcome. Donations of funds to offset the costs of supplies, or donations of supplies such as bedding plants can really have a big impact on what we are able to accomplish. Donations to BAMU to help provide lunch would also be appreciated. BAMU can be contacted through SonRise Church, 410-629-1901 or pastor@sonrise.cc.

Clean-Up Day and Take Pride in Berlin Week aren’t only about public areas. Residents are also encouraged to take this opportunity to do their own spring-cleaning on their property and to consider what else can be done to show Berlin Pride. Throughout the week, look around your own property, your neighborhood, and anywhere else you can think of that could do with a pick-me-up.

And remember, taking pride in Berlin isn’t just about looks. Are there other ways you can use your time or talents for your community? There are many volunteer opportunities in and around Berlin and help is always needed. For more information visit the Worcester County Volunteer Services website at www.co.worcester.md.us/volunteerservices.apsx.

To pre-register Clean-Up Day, please visit the volunteer sign up page . Pre-Registration is not required. You can also find us on FaceBook at “Take Pride in Berlin Week”. Please submit any ideas you want to share about what makes you proud of Berlin and what can be done to show BERLIN PRIDE!